From China CPI and PPI data was published. According to the latest release China's CPI increased by 1.5%, in line with market forecast. However, more worrying factor at the moment is constant PPI decline. An expected weak start of 2015 will prompt the government to step up measures to support the economy. Separate report on PPI showed 3.3% decrease, more than predicted 3.1% decline.
US session was marked by NFP report. Total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 252,000 in December, above expected increase by 241,000. In 2014, job growth averaged 246,000 per month, compared with an average monthly gain of 194,000 in 2013. In December, employment increased in professional and business services, construction, food services and drinking places, health care, and manufacturing.
The unemployment rate declined by 0.2 percentage point to 5.6% in December, beating predictions on decline to 5.7%, and the number of unemployed persons declined by 383,000 to 8.7 million. Over the year, the unemployment rate and the number of unemployed persons were down by 1.1% and 1.7 million, respectively.
As for Monday, from Australia, ANZ Job Advertisements and Home Loans figures are scheduled for a release. Analysts are hoping for another raise in job advertisements, while Home Loans are expected to increase by 1.8%. There will be no data releases in the US session.
Figures to watch:
ANZ Job Advertisements (Monday 1:30)
Home Loans (Monday 1:30)
